Waimea Falls

Waimea Falls stands at the end of the main path through Waimea Valley, a sacred, historically significant ahupuaʻa on Oʻahu's North Shore, across Kamehameha Highway from Waimea Bay Beach. Admission covers a full day in the valley, with its botanical gardens, cultural sites and the falls. The path to the falls is paved and accessible and runs through themed botanical gardens, and a shuttle to the falls costs extra. The valley also keeps a Kauhale, a historic Hawaiian living complex, and its name means reddish water, for the iron-rich volcanic soils. Swimming at the falls is allowed when lifeguards are on duty and decide each morning that conditions are safe, and it can close after heavy rain. Swimmers check in with the lifeguard, wear a life jacket, and follow lifeguard instructions, since the water can rise within seconds; no diving and no climbing on the waterfall rocks. In dry spells the falls can slow to a trickle or stop for a while, and the valley may close the waterfall or trails in heavy rain or high water. Pets and drones are not allowed, and alcohol is not allowed past the ticket booth. Hiʻipaka LLC, a nonprofit, cares for the valley and holds title to the land.